Sustainable Coaching Podcast | How To Start A Coaching Business

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Coaches, This Is Not the Time to Quit: Why People Need You More Than Ever

2025-09-3006:50

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn West talks directly to coaches who may be feeling frustrated, uncertain, or ready to give up on their business. As we approach Q4 and reflect on what this year has brought, Marilyn shares why now, despite economic challenges, is actually the perfect time to keep showing up, serving, and building your coaching business. She emphasizes that people need coaches and community more than ever, and she provides actionable strategies to help you navigate uncertainty while creating real impact. Marilyn dives into the power of community as a growth strategy, the importance of consistent content, and the mindset shifts necessary to thrive during challenging times. This episode is packed with encouragement, insight, and practical steps that you can implement immediately to strengthen your coaching business and make a difference in your clients’ lives. In this episode, you'll learn: How can you turn economic uncertainty into an opportunity for your coaching business? Why is building a community now more important than running ads or launching programs? What mindset shifts will help you stay consistent, serve authentically, and thrive as a coach? Remember to join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | Work with Me | LinkedIn

The #1 Mistake New Coaches Make (and How to Fix It)

2025-09-2511:34

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn West opens up about the hardest lesson I had to learn as a coach. You must understand the distinction between selling what you want to offer and what your audience is actually ready to buy. I share my personal journey of realizing that passion projects don’t always align with market demand and why this disconnect keeps so many coaches stuck with programs that don’t sell. You’ll hear the truth about why even the most well-crafted programs can fall flat and what it really takes to create offers that resonate and convert. If you’ve ever launched something you poured your heart into only to hear crickets, this conversation will shift your perspective. I’ll walk you through how to listen to your audience, identify their most urgent problems, and package your expertise in a way that makes people excited to buy. This episode is about letting go of ego-driven offers and stepping into a strategy that allows you to serve more people while building a profitable coaching business. In this episode, you'll learn: How do you know if you’re selling what you want versus what your audience actually needs? What immediate problems should you solve first to build trust and long-term clients? How can you break down your big signature program into entry points that sell? Remember to join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | Work with Me | LinkedIn

Adapting Without Quitting: My Coaching Journey Back in Motion

2025-09-1504:40

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn West shares her official return after relocating from North Carolina to Florida! She opens up about what’s been happening behind the scenes, how this move has shifted her schedule, and the new changes coming to her coaching programs. She also reflects on the power of persistence through life’s transitions, and how staying consistent even when things look different. You’ll also hear about her gratitude for both loyal listeners and new subscribers who continue to support this podcast, along with an invitation to upcoming workshops designed to help you prepare your coaching business for success. This episode is less about teaching and more about connecting, updating, and inspiring you to keep going no matter what season of change you may be in. In this episode, you'll learn: How can persistence help you push through unexpected transitions in business and life? What shifts are happening inside my coaching programs and how could they benefit you? Why is adapting without abandoning your vision the key to long-term success? Remember to join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | Work with Me | LinkedIn

The Power of Messy Action & Emotional Intelligence in Coaching

2025-07-0110:37

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn West shares the raw truth behind what it really takes to grow a coaching business that lasts. She opens up about her decision to take messy, uncomfortable action by going back to school for a second master's in mental health counseling, all while running a full coaching practice. If you've ever found yourself stuck in perfectionism, comparing your progress to others, or waiting for the "right time" to launch, this episode will speak directly to your journey. But Marilyn doesn’t stop there, she goes deeper. She reveals how emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and doing your own inner work are critical to becoming a coach who truly creates transformation. Whether you're just starting your coaching business or looking to elevate your impact, this episode will challenge you to lead from a place of both strategy and soul. In this episode, you'll learn: What would happen if you believed messy action was more powerful than perfect inaction? How are your unhealed emotional triggers showing up in the way you coach or lead? Can you truly hold space for transformation if you haven’t done the inner work yourself? Remember to join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | Work with Me | LinkedIn

Can You Really Build a Coaching Business Without Social Media?

2025-05-2610:33

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, we dive into one of the most powerful tools for establishing yourself as a thought leader, attracting your dream clients, and creating content that works for you around the clock. If you're a coach looking to build a strong personal brand while maintaining consistency without burning out, this episode is for you. Your goal should be to leverage an SEO-driven platform that allows you to reach your ideal audience without fighting social media algorithms in 2025. Get ready to learn how to position yourself as an expert, expand on your ideas without limitations, and attract the right people who are genuinely interested in your message. In this episode, you'll learn: Are you building your coaching business for fast results or sustainable growth? How can SEO and email marketing replace your reliance on social media? What content strategy feels most authentic and energizing for your lifestyle? Remember to join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | Work with Me | LinkedIn

Why Every Coach Needs a Podcast: Build Authority, Attract Clients, and Grow with SEO

2025-03-0811:12

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, we discuss how feeling stuck in your coaching business can be frustrating, but you’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into why your business might feel stagnant and, more importantly, how to break free from that rut. Whether it’s self-doubt, unclear messaging, or an inconsistent strategy, we’re tackling the roadblocks that keep you from growing. I’ll share insights on what’s holding you back and the mindset shifts you need to confidently move forward. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a fresh perspective on what’s really keeping you stuck and the next steps to get back on track. We’re talking about real, actionable solutions so you can stop spinning your wheels and start making progress. If you’re ready to gain clarity, build momentum, and grow a sustainable coaching business, this episode is for you! What’s the first step to healing emotional wounds? How does forgiveness impact your mindset and personal growth? What strategies can you use to stop reliving past pain and start moving forward? Don't forget to join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in-depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | Work with Me | LinkedIn

Feeling Stuck in Your Coaching Business? Here’s How to Get Back on Track

2025-03-0408:50

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, we discuss how feeling stuck in your coaching business can be frustrating, but you’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into why your business might feel stagnant and, more importantly, how to break free from that rut. Whether it’s self-doubt, unclear messaging, or an inconsistent strategy, we’re tackling the roadblocks that keep you from growing. I’ll be sharing insights on what’s holding you back and the mindset shifts you need to move forward with confidence. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a fresh perspective on what’s really keeping you stuck and the next steps to get back on track. We’re talking about real, actionable solutions so you can stop spinning your wheels and start making progress. If you’re ready to gain clarity, build momentum, and grow a sustainable coaching business, this episode is for you! What hidden mindset blocks are holding you back from growth? How can you shift your strategy to attract the right clients? What practical steps can you take today to regain momentum? Don't forget to scroll down and join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in-depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | LinkedIn

How to Leverage SEO to Attract Clients and Build Long-Term Authority

2025-02-2413:09

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, we dive deep into why SEO is a game-changer for coaches, consultants, and therapists looking to stand out in the crowded online space. If you've ever wondered how to attract your ideal clients, gain long-term visibility, and establish yourself as an industry authority, this conversation is for you. We'll explore how leveraging SEO can create a sustainable coaching business without the pressure of constantly showing up on social media. With the coaching industry evolving, now is the perfect time to position yourself strategically and build a business that lasts. You'll also hear about Coaching with Confidence, my signature program designed to help you break free from the overwhelm of content creation and start attracting clients effortlessly. This program provides proven strategies, mindset shifts, and powerful tools to help you lead with intention and build a coaching business that aligns with your purpose. If you're ready to make SEO work for you, join our private community on Mighty Networks, check the show notes for the link! How can SEO help you attract your ideal coaching clients without constantly relying on social media? What are the biggest mistakes coaches make when trying to rank on Google, and how can you avoid them? Why is it essential to start using SEO now to create long-term visibility and business sustainability? Don't forget to scroll down and join our free community, where we discuss these strategies in-depth. Let’s build your business with confidence and sustainability! Join the Community | LinkedIn

Avoid the Overwhelm: How to Invest Smartly in Your Coaching Business

2025-02-1912:24

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, I’m sharing why starting your coaching business can feel like stepping into a whirlwind of decisions, strategies, and shiny objects that all promise success. But not everything is necessary right away. In this episode, we’re talking about intentional investing—not just with your money but also your time and energy. Knowing what you truly need and how you want to show up in the coaching industry will help you make strategic choices that actually move the needle forward. From selecting the right coaching model to choosing a marketing platform that aligns with your strengths, this conversation is all about setting yourself up for sustainable success. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the tools, courses, and platforms out there, this episode will help you simplify your approach. I’ll walk you through how to identify your true business needs, avoid unnecessary expenses, and invest in the right skills that will directly impact your growth. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clearer plan for where to focus your energy and resources so you can build a coaching business that works for you, not against you. How do you choose the right coaching model before investing in tools or training? What’s the best way to select a marketing platform that aligns with your strengths? How can you invest in the right skills and resources to accelerate your business growth? Join the Community | LinkedIn

Popularity vs. Profitability: The Coaching Shift in 2025

2025-02-1112:22

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, I’m sharing my personal journey of navigating a challenging 2024, from balancing my business to managing my health while healing from topical steroid withdrawal. It wasn’t easy, but grace carried me through, and I’m back with renewed energy to pour into this podcast. If you’ve been with me since my Clubhouse days, you know I love to talk, but last year took a toll on me. Now, I’m ready to dive deep into what matters most: building a sustainable coaching business that aligns with your goals and values. Today, we’re discussing a crucial question for every coach and consultant: Are you chasing popularity or profitability in 2025? Social media has shifted, and it’s vital to know where your energy is best spent. I’ll share how sustainable strategies and SEO helped me grow my business, even when I wasn’t showing up on every platform. Plus, I’ll give you the tools to position yourself as an expert, attract the right clients, and avoid the burnout of chasing trends. If you’re ready to build a thriving, profitable coaching business, this episode is for you! Are you focusing on gaining followers or building real relationships that lead to paying clients? How do you identify which platforms align with your goals for profitability versus popularity? What sustainable strategies can help you position yourself as an expert and attract ideal clients Join the Community | LinkedIn

From Burnout to Breakthrough: Redefining Success through Rest and Strategy

2024-11-0411:41

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn West tackles the burnout that coaches often face and offers insights into how to overcome it, reigniting your enthusiasm for your work and your mission. Marilyn shares her own burnout experience, balancing rebranding and staying active online, and explains how she found renewed energy through mindset shifts, abundance-thinking, and trust in her evergreen content. This episode is about building sustainable, low-stress growth by embracing strategy over hustle. If you're a new or seasoned coach feeling stretched thin or questioning your passion, this episode will help you reframe burnout as an opportunity for growth and transformation. Marilyn dives into the practical strategies that every coach can use to thrive sustainably, from leveraging evergreen content to diversifying their approach. Tune in to learn how to break free from the pressure to constantly create, regain joy in your work, and align your energy for long-term success. How can embracing an abundance mindset shift your approach to content creation and client attraction? What are effective strategies for diversifying your content to ensure it works for you, even when you need a break? How can honoring your energy and aligning with the right networks lead to greater fulfillment and success as a coach? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

3 Common Mistakes New Coaches Make

2024-10-2811:04

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn West dives into the critical reasons why so many coaching businesses fail within their first two years. As we enter Q4, it’s the perfect time to reflect on where your business may be falling short and to take actionable steps for growth. Marilyn discusses common roadblocks coaches face, from lacking clarity in their niche to inconsistent marketing, and breaks down strategies to overcome these obstacles and drive business success. This episode is all about building a sustainable coaching practice that doesn’t just survive but thrives. Listeners will gain insights into how to clearly define their unique value, target the right audience, and develop a consistent marketing strategy that builds trust and authority. Marilyn also shares practical examples to help coaches understand the importance of crafting an irresistible offer and standing out in a crowded market. Whether you're a new coach or looking to revamp your strategy, this episode provides valuable advice to help you navigate the challenges and take your coaching business to the next level. How do you know if you lack clarity in your niche and how can you define it more effectively? What are the signs of inconsistent marketing and how can you align your messaging to attract your ideal clients? Why is a strong offer essential for growth and how can you ensure your offer resonates with your target audience? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

Marketing Made Easy: How to Automate Your Client Journey and Free Up Your Time

2024-10-2409:04

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn West dives deep into the art of automating your coaching business, from attracting potential clients to nurturing them and making it easy for them to purchase your services. We'll discuss how to streamline your marketing efforts and free up your time so you can focus on what you love: coaching. How can I attract potential clients without spending hours on social media? What's the best way to nurture leads and build relationships with potential clients? How can I make it easy for clients to book appointments and purchase my services? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

Strategies to Scale Your Coaching Business Efficiently

2024-10-0710:45

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn dives into the key strategies every coach needs to know when scaling a coaching business without sacrificing time, energy, or personal life. She shares insights from her journey, including how she reversed her summer slump by planning and leveraging systems to streamline operations. We’ll discuss how to effectively manage your time, automate processes, and delegate tasks so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business and living the life you love. You’ll also learn the importance of setting boundaries, protecting your most valuable asset (your time), and implementing sustainable systems that align with your long-term goals. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, this episode will provide actionable strategies to help you build a coaching business that supports your lifestyle and prevents burnout. How can you leverage systems and automation to save time and increase efficiency? What strategies can help you avoid burnout while scaling your coaching business? How can you effectively delegate tasks without losing control over your operations? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

Redefining Success & Aligning Your Business with Your Core Values

2024-09-2310:57

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn diving deep into redefining success and setting powerful intentions that align with your core values. Over the past few months, I've been reflecting on the true meaning of success and how it feels to pursue growth that doesn’t align with your heart. I discuss my journey of stepping back from the constant pressure to perform on social media and shifting my focus toward creating a coaching business supporting my faith, family, and personal well-being. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or like you’re not living up to your full potential, this episode is for you. You’ll learn how to create a clear vision for your coaching business that brings fulfillment, not burnout. I’ll also share how setting intentions rather than solely focusing on goals can guide you through uncertainty and keep you motivated. Lastly, we’ll explore what it really means to define success on your own terms and how to build a business that fits into your life, not the other way around. How can aligning your goals with your core values lead to greater fulfillment in your coaching business? What’s the difference between setting intentions and setting goals, and why does it matter? How can you design success for your life while still making a meaningful impact as a coach? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

Six-Figure Coaching Promises: Real Strategies for Real Results

2024-09-1607:31

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn delves into the unrealistic promises many coaching programs make about achieving six-figure incomes quickly. Rather than chasing these often unattainable promises, Marilyn emphasizes the importance of creating a sustainable lead generation strategy. New coaches can build a solid foundation for their businesses by focusing on long-term success and setting realistic expectations. Marilyn explains the significance of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and how they can help measure the effectiveness of a strategy. She also highlights the importance of understanding your target audience, creating valuable content, and establishing an authoritative presence. Listeners will learn how to align their coaching strategies with their lifestyles to achieve consistent growth. How can you create a sustainable lead generation strategy that grows over time? Why is tracking your progress with KPIs critical to building a successful coaching business? What should you consider before signing up for programs that promise six-figure income results? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

Mastering SEO for Black Friday: Boost Your Coaching Business Visibility and Sales

2024-09-0908:48

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn dives into the importance of maximizing your visibility as a coach through SEO strategies for Black Friday. Ensuring your coaching business stands out is crucial as we approach the peak shopping season. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale, we'll discuss why now is the perfect time to optimize your website, content, and keywords. We'll also cover practical steps to help you position yourself as the go-to expert in your niche. This episode is sponsored by Coaching with Confidence, my community for coaches looking to elevate their business with SEO strategies. In this episode, you'll learn: How can starting an early Black Friday SEO strategy increase your visibility and boost sales? What are the most effective SEO tactics to implement now to rank higher on search engines by Black Friday? How do building backlinks and optimizing keywords enhance your credibility and trust with potential clients? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

Balancing Business and Health: A Personal Journey with Eczema and TSW

2024-07-1512:27

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn shares her ongoing battle with eczema and Topical Steroid Withdrawal (TSW), sharing her journey of managing these health challenges while maintaining a sustainable business. Marilyn touches on her painful experiences, the treatments she has undergone, and how she balances her health and professional life to maintain a healthy work-life balance. In this episode, you'll learn: How do you navigate health challenges while running a business? How can you build a business that aligns with your health and personal well-being? How does prioritizing health affect your productivity and business success? Join the Community | Instagram | LinkedIn

From Confusion to Clarity: A Six-Figure Lead Generation Strategy

2024-05-1708:27

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn delves into the crucial elements of a six-figure lead generation strategy for coaches, emphasizing clarity, confidence, and consistency as key pillars for success. She highlights the importance of understanding one's niche, target audience, and unique value proposition, alongside the significance of building confidence through skill mastery and consistent action. Marilyn also explores the role of SEO in maintaining visibility and relevance in the marketplace, offering practical insights for optimizing content and building credible links. In this episode, you'll learn: How can clarity and confidence impact the quality of leads in a coaching business? What are actionable steps for integrating targeted keywords naturally into content? Why is consistency essential for sustaining momentum and achieving long-term success in lead generation? Join Coaching with Confidence | Instagram | LinkedIn

Confidence: Mastering Your Mindset for Success

2024-05-1308:18

In this episode of the Sustainable Coaching Podcast, Marilyn delves into the pivotal role of confidence in the journey of building a successful coaching business. Explore how mastering your mindset can be the game-changer you've been seeking. Listeners take a look into the heart of building a thriving coaching business. Marilyn passionately explores the often-overlooked yet essential ingredient of confidence in entrepreneurial success, emphasizing its profound impact on personal and professional growth. Throughout the episode, Marilyn eloquently articulates the significance of mastering one's mindset, highlighting how self-belief and resilience are the cornerstones of a successful coaching business. In this episode, you'll learn: How does confidence impact your ability to attract clients and drive business growth? What are the common manifestations of self-doubt and how can you overcome them? Why is it essential to cultivate strong communication skills and expand your comfort zone as a coach? Join Coaching with Confidence | Instagram | LinkedIn

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Sustainable Coaching Podcast | How To Start A Coaching Business